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WingsThroughFir
2 Posts
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5097
November 30th, 2005 22:00
"Unmountable_Boot_Volume" error and NO Windows XP CD
I'm sure you guys have been getting this one a lot because in an attempt to discover a solution to this problem, the first thing I did was search the forums to see if anyone had the same issue I currently have. Indeed, many people posted that they had this "UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME" error, and recieved the same solution: To do some kind of system restore with the Operating System installation CD. Even when I checked Microsoft Support, I was told to do the same thing.
Now, my problem is that I bought a Dimension 5100 package from Dell only a few months ago, and it did not include an installation CD for my operating system. Instead, I got a small sheet that told me to use something called the "System Restore" utility that can ONLY be accessed when you are logged into Windows XP. Now remember, when you get this particular error, you cannot access Windows in any way, shape, or form. If you try to access it normally, you get a blue screen, if you try to access it with the last working configuration, you get a blue screen, if you try to access it with any kind of Safe mode, you get a blue screen. You get the picture. Logging on to Windows is absolutely out of the question with this error, and because I never recieved such an installation CD, I have found myself with no means of restoring my system, and things are looking pretty hopeless for me.
Because of this, I don't think it's the best idea that Dell doesn't supply people with these CD's just because there is a System Restore program on your computer. Sometimes you get errors where you can't access your operating system at all, and that CD will be necessary. I realize however, that something like that is out of my hands, and all I can do is ask if there is anybody who knows how I can restore my system when I don't have a Windows installation CD, and I have no way of accessing my OS to run the System Restore utility? If not, my only option would be to have such an installation CD sent to me. That would be my last resort, so if anyone knows how to solve this problem, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
Now, my problem is that I bought a Dimension 5100 package from Dell only a few months ago, and it did not include an installation CD for my operating system. Instead, I got a small sheet that told me to use something called the "System Restore" utility that can ONLY be accessed when you are logged into Windows XP. Now remember, when you get this particular error, you cannot access Windows in any way, shape, or form. If you try to access it normally, you get a blue screen, if you try to access it with the last working configuration, you get a blue screen, if you try to access it with any kind of Safe mode, you get a blue screen. You get the picture. Logging on to Windows is absolutely out of the question with this error, and because I never recieved such an installation CD, I have found myself with no means of restoring my system, and things are looking pretty hopeless for me.
Because of this, I don't think it's the best idea that Dell doesn't supply people with these CD's just because there is a System Restore program on your computer. Sometimes you get errors where you can't access your operating system at all, and that CD will be necessary. I realize however, that something like that is out of my hands, and all I can do is ask if there is anybody who knows how I can restore my system when I don't have a Windows installation CD, and I have no way of accessing my OS to run the System Restore utility? If not, my only option would be to have such an installation CD sent to me. That would be my last resort, so if anyone knows how to solve this problem, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
shesagordie
12 Elder
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46017 Posts
142
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Posted November 30th, 2005 22:00
WingsThroughFireWhile under warranty, you may get the reinstallation CDs free of charge through the rules of the Media Reduction Initiative.Bev.
WingsThroughFir
2 Posts
142
0
Posted December 1st, 2005 02:00
Is that so? I'm sorry if I sounded ignorant, but whenever I looked into how you ran this Symantec Restore, the first step was always to do something while logged into Windows, and because of that I didn't bother to read on. Perhaps I should have looked more into it before saying anything? My apologies.
I did actually attempt the Dell Diagnostics check before posting this, only to get the same blue screen. I was also unaware of the XP CD option at purchase because I got the 5100 package as a gift. I suppose I should apologize for that statement too.
Anyway, I tried it out and you were absolutely right. My computer should be up and running again in no time. I felt dumb for asking because I'm usually able to figure out this kind of thing on my own, but I guess it doesn't hurt to swallow your pride sometimes and just ask. I greatly appreciate the help ejn63! A million thanks.
ejn63
11 Legend
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87468 Posts
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321253 Points
142
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Posted November 30th, 2005 22:00
Second, you should boot, press F12 and run the Dell diagnostics - again, Windows need not load. Do an extended test of the hard drive.
The XP CD is an option at purchase. If you did not opt for it, you can call and have the disc sent to you.